Partitioning of Organic Chlorine between Bulk Water and Benthal Interstitial Water through a Kraft Mill Aerated Lagoon

Abstract

This paper reports the measured distribution of total and low molecular weight organic chlorine through a Kraft Hill aerated lagoon. Both benthal interstitial water and corresponding overlying water patterns were measured. Benthal solids were also analyzed for extractable organic chlorine. The extent of organic chlorine partitioning between the overlying water and benthal zone is indicative of the role of biosorption in the transport of organic chlorine compounds from the water column to the sediments and benthal zone of the lagoon. Evidence is presented for the occurrence of microbial dehalogenation within the anoxic benthal deposit.